World Country Guide

Sport & Activities

Watersports
Snorkelling and diving are very popular. The New Caledonian authorities have created marine reserves on several islets to protect marine fauna and flora. There are also sunken shipwrecks, which act as artificial reefs. Some of the best dive sites include: around Nouma, the Amde Lighthouse Reserve (including shark feeding), La Dieppoise (shipwreck of a Royal Navy patrol ship sunk in 1988), and Ilot Matre; to the south, the Prony Needle; to the north, the Tenia Horn (near Boulouparis), the Fault (near Bourail) and the Hienghene Reef; and Lifou in the Loyalty Islands. There are many PADI-approved diving centres on the mainland and the outlying islands, all offering beginners’ courses, training and certification. Night dives and photo dives are also available. For a list of diving centres, contact New Caledonia Tourism (see Contact Addresses section). The Bay of Anse Vata and Cte Blanche, both in Nouma, are the favourite locations for windsurfing. International competitions such as the Trophe des Alizs attract some of the world’s top competitors. Fishing is one of the locals’ favourite pastimes, which visitors can participate in by accompanying them on fishing expeditions to catch tuna, marlin or snapper. Chartered fishing boats can also be hired. The coral barrier reef off the shore of Nouma is excellent for underwater spearfishing. The main location for freshwater fishing is Yat Lake, which is open from January to October.

Whale watching
From July to September, humpback whales can be spotted during the mating season in the bays of the southern lagoon and Lifou. Excursions are organised from Nouma and from the south of the mainland to spot them. The whales may also be seen during scuba diving trips.

Boat trips
Excursions in Melanesian outrigger canoes are organised at the Isle of Pines. Several operators offer trips to the coral reefs in glass-bottomed boats from which visitors can observe the marine life. Reservations can be made from gtes or hotels on the islands. Sailing boats can be chartered with or without a skipper. Kayaks or canoes can be rented to explore New Caledonia’s network of rivers, streams and lakes.

Hiking
Arrangements can be made in the capital for trips into the interior. Botanical excursions through the forest of Mount Koghi (with French- or English-speaking guides) are also available.

Horse riding
Excursions are organised from Nouma, Dumbea, La Foa, Bourail, Thio and the Kon villages. These vary from simple rides to major expeditions to the local bush (which involve crossing the mountain range, mustering cattle and camping in the mountains). Advance booking is essential.

Golf
New Caledonia has three 18-hole golf courses plus driving ranges and putting greens. Private lessons, hire of equipment and restaurants are available at the Dumba Golf Club, Ouenghi Golf Club and Tina Golf Club.